Minnesota Town's 200+ Volunteers Make Magic Happen Daily

In Fairmont, Minnesota, something extraordinary happens every single day without fanfare or payment. More than 200 volunteers show up to feed hungry kids, take disabled veterans fishing, and help seniors stay independent.

Heaven's Table Food Shelf feeds 380 children weekly through their backpack program alone. Director Greta Lintelman runs the operation with just two part-time staff members and over 100 volunteers who make it all possible.

"It doesn't cost you anything to volunteer," Lintelman says. "You meet other people, and there's a pretty strong camaraderie amongst the folks that come and work."

The volunteers rotate through shifts, with 30 people working each week just to keep the doors open. Some come every Tuesday night while others help monthly, creating a steady rhythm of support for families who need it most.

Meanwhile, Let's Go Fishing takes a different approach to community care. President Ron Kallheim and 65 volunteers operate a specially designed 25-foot pontoon boat that gives free fishing trips and lake cruises to seniors, disabled residents, and veterans.

The pontoon features doors and ramps on both sides so wheelchairs and walkers can easily board. Volunteer captains drive while "first mates" bait hooks, cast lines, and help guests reel in their catches.

They complete over 70 trips each year. Kallheim, who started volunteering after retirement, says people give back to causes that matter to them personally.

"Once you retire, you find out you have a lot of time on your hands," he explains. "I've always liked to fish, so it was an easy thing for me to start doing that."

CREST adds another layer of support with 60 volunteers who provide in-home visits, transportation to medical appointments, minor home repairs, and respite care for residents over 60. Director Rob Stauter says volunteers make up 60 percent of their workforce.

The Ripple Effect

These volunteers create waves of impact far beyond their immediate service. Kids getting weekend food can focus on school instead of hunger. Veterans in wheelchairs get to feel the sun on their faces and a fish tugging their line. Lonely seniors receive visits that remind them they still matter.

Word of mouth keeps volunteers flowing in. People take boat rides and tell their friends. Church members recruit neighbors. The culture of giving feeds itself.

National Volunteer Week celebrates these unsung heroes, but in Fairmont, the celebration happens every single day someone shows up to help.